Talk highlights opportunities to construct a new career

‘Women in construction’ was the theme of an inspirational talk for students at Weaverham High School.

Organised by Fusion21 and contractor Balfour Beatty, The Skills Club seeks to break down stereotypes and showcase the wide variety of jobs in construction by engaging with students across Mid Cheshire.

The Skills Club usually comprises 6-12 students in each session but the demand was so high that Fusion21 saw 58 female students in four sessions throughout the day. The Skills Club will be followed up with a visit to the Barons Quay site over the next few weeks in Northwich. Fusion21 are the social value partners on the project which will see a new thriving retail and leisure quarter in Northwich and is the driver for engaging with potential construction workers of the future. .

Danielle McGivern, Community Regeneration Officer from Fusion21, delivered The Skills Club alongside Nicola Duerden, the design manager for Barons Quay.

Danielle said: “I suggested the topic of women in construction to the school because I wanted to explain the different routes into the industry and to break down some of the barriers and stereotypes that still seem to exist. I think if you are trying to encourage the next generation into what is a really exciting and varied industry you need to use your own experiences and promote the positive things that you have experienced. I worked as a plasterer for some years and so I draw on that experience to engage the students.

“Today’s teenagers are the architects, builders, engineers and project managers that could work on Northwich projects in the future. It was a real privilege to see so many girls looking forward to a career in the construction industry.”

Fusion21 is working closely with Balfour Beatty, the main contractor on the £80m Barons Quay development, to engage with the local community and create employment.